Nuclear Science

Research Areas

ORNL’s leadership in nuclear science and technology is essential for ensuring a safe, effective nuclear infrastructure today, while paving the way for tomorrow’s nuclear breakthroughs.

The laboratory provides leadership in the full spectrum of research, development, and deployment of reactor and nuclear fuel cycle technologies, from fuel development to the transport, storage, and disposal of used nuclear fuel. The lab's fuel cycle expertise also supports national security through nuclear forensics, nuclear material detection, and fuel-cycle signature analysis. With other government, industrial, and academic partners, ORNL researchers are using simulations and modeling to determine safe, efficient ways to improve energy production from nuclear reactors.